Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Karen Collins

Paradise

Summary

Dynamic Medical Laboratory Assistant with proven expertise in specimen processing and inventory management at Eastern Health. Excelled in enhancing lab efficiency and patient care through meticulous sample handling and innovative system optimizations. Skilled in microbiology and public health techniques and fostering team collaboration, demonstrated by leading training initiatives. Adapts swiftly to change, ensuring high standards of laboratory safety and productivity.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience

Work History

Medical Laboratory Assistant

Eastern Health
05.2008 - Current
  • Current role of acting lead in Public Health Microbiology specimen processing area including Media Preparation
  • Currently roll of optimizing inventory management systems for necessary supplies, preventing shortages or delays in testing capabilities.
  • Facilitated communication between medical staff including physicians, microbiologist and laboratory personnel for efficient result delivery and collaboration.
  • Promoted patient confidentiality by adhering to regulations during all phases of specimen handling and reporting processes.
  • Improved patient care with accurate and timely test results through meticulous attention to detail in sample handling.
  • Demonstrated excellent problem-solving skills when troubleshooting issues related to sample collection, preparation or equipment malfunctions.
  • Documented and verified patient information using laboratory information system.
  • Maintained a clean, safe work environment by following strict laboratory protocols and guidelines.
  • Prepared laboratory samples for analysis and performed data entry for accurate reporting.
  • Streamlined the process for data entry into laboratory information management systems, reducing the potential for human error.
  • Increased lab productivity by effectively prioritizing tasks and completing them within designated timeframes.
  • Enhanced laboratory efficiency by streamlining specimen processing and organizing daily workflows.
  • Performed routine maintenance on lab equipment to ensure optimal functionality, minimizing downtime due to technical issues.
  • Supported department goals with proficient operation of various lab equipment, including centrifuges, microscopes, and automated analyzers.
  • Assisted in the training of new laboratory assistants, providing guidance on best practices and procedures.
  • Followed safety protocols to maintain safe and secure laboratory environment.
  • Set up, maintained and verified sterility of lab equipment and tools.
  • Participated in ongoing education and professional development opportunities to stay current with industry advancements and best practices.

Education

Medical Laboratory

College of The North Atlantic
St. John's, NL
05-2008

Skills

  • Adaptable to change
  • Centrifugation techniques
  • Patient confidentiality
  • Specimen collection and phlebotomy expertise
  • Inventory control
  • Lab equipment maintenance
  • Microbiology techniques
  • Laboratory safety protocols and sterile technique
  • Sample preparation
  • Training and mentoring

Timeline

Medical Laboratory Assistant

Eastern Health
05.2008 - Current

Medical Laboratory

College of The North Atlantic
Karen Collins